Erik Ten Hag: Five players on the new Manchester United boss's summer transfer wishlist

Erik Ten Hag has been officially announced as the new manager of Manchester United and he would need a big overhaul of players in the summer.

Erik Ten Hag: Five players on the new Manchester United boss's summer transfer wishlist

Erik Ten Hag has been officially announced as the new manager of Manchester United. He will take over his job at the end of the season. In the post match interview against Liverpool, Ralph Rangnick said that the squad needs a rebuild and backing needs to be given to Erik Ten Hag.

With players like Paul Pogba, Juan Mata, Jesse Lingard, Nemanja Matic out of contracts in the summer. It is important to Manchester United new boos, Erik Ten Hag to recruit the correct players to fit his fluid football system.

Now we take a look at 5 players that Erik Ten Hag might sign for Manchester United in the summer transfer window:

Declan Rice (West Ham United):

Erik Ten Hag: Delcan Rice | Sportz Point.
Declan Rice (Image- Manchester Evening News)

Declan Rice doesn't carry himself like a junior member of the teams he plays in. Despite still very much being in the early stages of his career, Rice is a leader on and off the pitch for West Ham, and does a similar job when surrounded by senior players on international duty with England.

Rice is a defensive-minded player who does his best work winning the ball and protecting his defence. His seamless conversion from a central defender into a defensive midfielder – where he has shown a real talent for delaying and breaking up attacks, particularly at the point of an attacking transition for his opponents – has proved just how naturally that side of the game comes to him. He has an ability to spot danger that only the best ball-winners have; Rice is similar in that regard to N'Golo Kanté.

He is an incredibly powerful runner, and he is capable of carrying the ball forwards at pace to launch a counter or simply break lines before distributing to a teammate.

He has very good passing ability, and it is improving, too. While he is good at retaining and recycling possession, he plays vertical passes where possible, and he has the ability to play accurate, long-range diagonal passes towards an advancing winger to switch play. Most of the time he is conservative with his passing – playing simple passes to more attack-minded teammates – but given he can play dangerous balls forwards, opponents cannot sit off him and allow him space to pick his pass.

Harry Kane (Tottenham Hotspur):

Erik Ten Hag: Harry Kane | Sportz Point.
Harry Kane (Image- The Guardian)

Harry Kane set himself incredibly high standards with his breathtaking goalscoring record in the first few seasons following his breakthrough at Tottenham. Under the guidance of Mauricio Pochettino, Kane developed into one of the best centre-forwards in the world, winning consecutive Premier League golden boots in 2015/16 and 2016/17 and then earning the England captaincy. After a spate of ankle injuries that threatened his consistent supply of goals, Kane bounced back each time, and has since developed into a different – and even more effective – player. In a more withdrawn role, he creates chances as often as scores goals himself.

Kane is as close to the perfect centre-forward as there is. He has no obvious weaknesses, scores goals of all types, is brilliant at holding the ball up, works tirelessly, creates for others, makes significant and crucial defensive contributions, and is a leader both on and off the pitch. A potential desire to leave Spurs in search of trophies could yet lead to a move, but if that does happen he will cost the club buying him a huge amount of money.

He scores numerous goals off first-time finishes but also likes to receive to feet and try to forge his own path to goal. He isn't quite as quick as he once was, so shifting the ball to one side before firing a shot off has become a less successful route to goal if a defender is tight to him, but he can still use skill to beat opponents and work himself a shooting opportunity.

Jurrien Timber (Ajax):

Sportz Point.
Jurrien Timber (Image- Daily Express)

Jurriën Timber had already managed to make a name for himself on multiple levels by the age of 20. Now an established member of the Eredivisie's dominant champions, AFC Ajax, the young defender has burst onto the scene over the past couple of seasons.

After making his debut in the least league game before lockdown, he returned from the enforced break with an even more important role in the first-team squad. The following summer, he was part of the Dutch team at the delayed EURO 2020.

Movement at the back is vital to Ajax's evolved attacking approach, especially as Timber is a huge facilitator for others around him in a system so focused on more grounded and guarded mechanisms to sustain pressure.

Timber is incredibly patient and will use every second he's given to manipulate the opposition in order to create alleyways elsewhere. He'll slowly adjust his position with the ball so that he can create space for teammates to rotate into untracked and unseen.

Timber's defensive work is often much more forthright and aggressive. His positioning during final third attacks often puts him in good stead to press onto forwards immediately. When he has free reign attack opposition ball-holders, he's capable of timing his challenges from behind and finding the right space to reach through to nick the ball well. However, it's all a different matter when Timber is tasked with marking someone.

Antony (Ajax):

Sportz Point.
Antony (Image- Talk Sports)

Ajax winger Antony's career continues to go from strength to strength. The Dutch giants have enjoyed a dominant 2021/22 season so far, topping their Champions League group, leading the Eredivisie, and into a KNVB Beker semi-final: it has been a decent start.

11 goals and nine assists in under 2,000 minutes suggests that the 21-year-old has played a big part in that. The newly-capped Brazil international now looks likely to be a part of his nation's World Cup squad too, after playing in Brazil's last seven qualifying fixtures off the bench.

Much of the time, Antony enjoys hanging wide on the right so he can gain momentum after picking up the ball by driving inwards. His acceleration from a standing start is explosive; his elite balance and lower body strength allows him to remain on his feet even under heavy pressure – he is a worker with great endeavour, the type of player to clean up his own mess.

On his left foot, in a tiny segment of the pitch in the right-hand half-space just outside the penalty area, Antony likes to bend in floated crosses to the far post. At any time, he is likely to be servicing Lassina Traoré and now Sébastien Haller – a decent set of targets for any crosser. His command over the ball is masterful, the swing of his leg and shaping of his body illustrative of well-cultured muscle memory. It is a useful tool to have against sides intent on packing their own defensive third and congesting central areas.

Aurelien Tchouameni (AS Monaco):

Erik Ten Hag : Aurelien Tchouameni | Sportz Point.
Aurelien Tchouameni (Image- Sports Illustrated)

AS Monaco are notorious for their track-record of enabling young players to flourish, and 21-year-old midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni is the crown jewel of their current crop of talents.

Under former Bayern Munich boss Niko Kovac, Monaco play in a possession-based, high-pressing 3-4-3 or 4-4-2. Tchouameni plays as the anchoring player in the midfield double pivot, usually alongside the energetic Youssouf Fofana. His 12 appearances in Ligue 1 after just 13 match days reflect how central he is to Kovac's system and tactical approach.

Tchouameni is extremely well-rounded technically, allowing him to contribute to Monaco's ball progression in a variety of ways. As they build from the back, Kovac instructs the centre-backs to look for short, central passing options when possible, rather than trying to play through the flanks.

Tchouameni is frequently able to escape opposition cover shadow and pose as a passing option.Once he's controlled the ball, Tchouameni is a proactive passer who will attempt riskier passes that progress play forwards as opposed to safer lateral or backwards passes.

The Frenchman is also an above-average ball-carrier. He only attempts 1.15 dribbles per 90, but completes them at an 83% success rate. Tchouameni's acceleration and physical strength mean he is hard to stop when he drives forward with the ball.

Defensively, Tchouameni stands out as an elite ball-winner. For metrics such as pressures, tackles, interceptions, and aerial duels won, he ranks among the best performing midfielders in Europe's top five leagues. Monaco press high and aggressively in a 4-2-4 shape, meaning Tchouameni needs to cover large swaths of space behind the first line of the press.

Erik Ten Hag will surely be interested in bringing one or more of these above mentioned players to Old Trafford in the summer as he looks to rebuild and take back Manchester United to the absolute top of European football. The appointment of Erik Ten Hag is surely going to be very interesting for the fans of Manchester United nd European football as a whole

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Everton vs Liverpool: Match Preview, Head to Head Stats, Predictions and Possible Lineups

Check out the full match preview, previous records, head-to-head stats, predictions, injury updates, and possible lineups of the Everton vs Liverpool clash in the Premier League 2024-25 season.

Muojindu Francis

Dec 6, 2024, 9:11 PM

Everton vs Liverpool: Match Preview, Head to Head Stats, Predictions and Possible Lineups - sportzpoint.com

This fixture holds so much history in the League fondly called the Merseyside derby it was one of the most fiercely contested games. As these two iconic clubs clash again, the stakes are as high as ever, with city pride and crucial points on the line. Everton will look to break Liverpool’s dominance in recent meetings, while the Reds aim to assert their superiority and keep their season's momentum alive.

Match Details

Match: Everton vs Liverpool

Date: 07/12/2024

Time: 6:00 pm (IST)

Venue: Goodison Park, Liverpool, England.

Match Preview

Everton will bid farewell to Goodison Park at the end of the season, a stadium that has been their home for decades and the venue for 244 Merseyside derbies. The 245th derby, set for tomorrow, will be the last held at Goodison before the club transitions to their new ground at Bramley-Moore Dock.

This historic occasion adds extra intensity, as Everton will be determined not to lose their final derby at the iconic ground to their fierce local rivals. Bragging rights and legacy will be on the line.

Everton manager Sean Dyche heads into the match with confidence following a dominant 4-0 win over Wolves midweek, a performance that highlighted their set-piece strength, with players like Dominic Calvert-Lewin and James Tarkowski posing significant aerial threats.

Their physicality in midfield will also be key to disrupting Liverpool’s flow, potentially creating a hostile environment that the Reds have struggled with in the past.

Read Also |  Erik Ten Hag is reportedly shortlisted to replace Marco Rose as the next RB Leipzig manager

Everton vs Liverpool Match Preview - Van Dijk during the training session on matchday -1 - sportzpoint.com
Van Dijk during the training session on matchday -1. Image | Liverpool FC

On the other hand, Liverpool manager Arne Slot will aim to rally his team after a frustrating draw against Newcastle, where they dropped two crucial points. Slot's side faces pressure from the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea closing in behind them in the standings. 

Liverpool, however, have match-winners aplenty, with Mohamed Salah in exceptional form. His pace, sharp runs, and finishing ability will test Everton's defensive resolve. Liverpool also boasts creativity throughout the squad, capable of turning even the most random moments into goal-scoring opportunities.

While Liverpool may be favorites, Everton’s determination to make their last derby at Goodison unforgettable could set the stage for an unpredictable and thrilling encounter.

Read Also | 5 Foreign Stars Who Have Scored Most Goals in Premier League History

Head- to- Head Stats

The two sides have played 64 times with Liverpool dominating the fixture. in the last 5 meetings, the visitors have won 3 times, while Everton has won once and the other has ended in a draw.

Matches played- 64

Liverpool win- 28

Everton win- 11

Draws- 25

Team News

Everton

Armando Broja - sportzpoint.com
Armando Broja after his Everton debut - Image | Everton

Armando Broja made his Everton debut late in Wednesday's victory and had a promising impact, creating two opportunities that Jack Harrison failed to convert.

Broja's return adds competition for Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who reclaimed his spot from Beto midweek and contributed to the two own goals scored by Craig Dawson.

Meanwhile, Youssef Chermiti is expected to return in a week or two to further strengthen Everton’s attacking lineup. In midfield, James Garner and Tim Iroegbunam are also working to regain fitness ahead of the demanding winter schedule.

Michael Keane is doubtful while Youssef Chermiti (foot), Tim Iroegbunam (foot) and James Garner (back) remain sidelined.

Read Also | "I will not wait until summer" Joshua Kimmich plans to decide his future very soon

Liverpool

Everton vs Liverpool Match Preview - Alisson Becker can return to playing XI for Liverpool - sportzpoint.com

Liverpool's defensive pair, Ibrahima Konate, and Conor Bradley, remain unavailable, and their absence was evident on Wednesday, with Joe Gomez struggling at the back, Jarrell Quansah may be the preferred option to partner Virgil van Dijk in defense.

Goalkeeper Alisson Becker is nearing a return, although Slot has indicated that he won’t rush him back due to Caoimhin Kelleher’s strong form. However, following Kelleher's costly mistake on Wednesday, Alisson could return sooner than expected.

Alexis Mac Allister will miss the match due to a suspension after his booking at Newcastle, and it seems unlikely that Diogo Jota or Federico Chiesa will feature in such a high-intensity game.

Read Also | Saudi Arabia in talks to participate in the CONCACAF Gold Cup 2025

Possible Lineups

Everton's possible starting lineup:

Pickford; Young, Tarkowski, Branthwaite, Mykolenko; Ndiaye, Gueye, Mangala, Doucoure, McNeil; Calvert-Lewin

Liverpool's possible starting lineup:

Kelleher; Alexander-Arnold, Quansah, Van Dijk, Robertson; Gravenberch, Jones, Szoboszlai; Salah, Nunez, Diaz

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Marc Guehi will receive no formal action by FA over his message on armband issue

Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi will not face any punishment by the FA for breaking Premier League regulations as he wrote religious messages on his rainbow armband, which conveys LGBTQ+ celebrations.

Marc Guehi will receive no formal action by FA over his message on armband issue - sportzpoint.com

Crystal Palace captain and England international, Marc Guehi, has avoided disciplinary action from the English Football Association (FA), despite breaching the Premier League regulations. The defender wrote a religious message on his rainbow armband to celebrate LGBTQ+ during Crystal Palace's Premier League outing against Newcastle United on 30 November, which ended up in a 1-1 draw.

The series of events 

Marc Guehi wrote religious messages on his captain's armband in Crystal Palace's dedicated 'Rainbow Laces' Premier League game against Newcastle United. Being a devoted Christian, he wrote "I love Jesus" on the armband for the game on 30 November 2024, which caught the eyes of the FA.

FA will remind Crystal Palace player Marc Guehi of rules over religious  messaging after he played with 'I love Jesus' armband | UK News | Sky News
(Image Credit | Sky News)

Significantly, Guehi did not write the word 'love' on the rainbow armband but he used a love sign instead. However, Guehi was warned about violating regulations regarding on-field slogans. Despite this warning, the 24-year-old defender proceeded to write "Jesus 'hearts' you" on his rainbow armband during the very next match against Ipswich Town on 4 December 2024. 

The regulation regarding slogans says:

Equipment must not have any political, religious or personal slogans. For any offence, the player and/or the team will be sanctioned by the competition organiser, the national association or by FIFA

The FA again warned Crystal Palace regarding the existing kit regulations. However, despite a second breach of the rule, they have decided against taking any measure.

Marc Guehi spoke to Sky Sports and explained his intentions behind the messages he wrote.

The message was pretty clear, to be honest. It was a message of love, of truth as well, and a message of inclusivity. So I think it speaks for itself,

Following the 1-0 victory against Ipswich on Tuesday, Palace manager Oliver Glasner commented regarding this issue in a post-match interview:

We respect every single player, especially Marc, who is our captain. He is a great guy, very humble and we shouldn't make it bigger than it is, he is very respectful to everyone in the club.

In football we are all against discrimination, it's a great campaign. We spoke about it, we speak often as he is my captain.

He is no child, he is an adult, he has his opinion and we accept and respect every opinion. The quote of this campaign is to be tolerant and Marc is very tolerant.

Recent rejections against LGBTQ+ celebrations from the Premier League players 

The Premier League and FA partnered with Stonewall, an LGBTQ+ charity, to promote inclusivity and diversity in football. As part of their 'Rainbow Laces' campaign, all 20 Premier League clubs were provided with rainbow-colored captain armbands to wear during matches last weekend and this week. This initiative, which began in 2013, aims to raise awareness and support for the LGBTQ+ community within the sport. 

However, there has been some recent displeasure the players have expressed due to their own opinions and beliefs. Ipswich Town's captain Sam Morsy was the only Premier League captain who did not wear the rainbow armband during the campaign in their recent PL outings against Nottingham Forest, and Crystal Palace. Ipswich stated that Morsy is a practicing Muslim and he did not wear the armband due to his religious beliefs. However, FA did not take any action as wearing the rainbow armband has not been mandatory.

Well done Sam Morsy' and other fan views after rainbow armband stance
Sam Morsy wore the regular captain's armband. (Image Credit | Football365)

On the other hand, Manchester United reportedly canceled plans to wear the special jackets supporting the LGBTQ+ community for their Premier League match against Everton on 1 December 2024; after one of their players refused to participate in the initiative. According to the Athletic, the player was Noussair Mazraoui who refused to wear the jackets due to his religious beliefs. United refused to confirm the identity of the player. 

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5 Foreign Stars Who Have Scored Most Goals in Premier League History

Egyptian superstar Mohamed Salah secured his spot among an elite group of top three non-English players who have achieved remarkable goal-scoring milestones in English top-flight football by netting his 170th goal. Sportz Point breaks down the details of this exclusive club.

Muojindu Francis

Dec 5, 2024, 8:39 PM

5 Foreign Stars Who Have Scored Most Goals in Premier League History - sportzpoint.com

The Premier League has traditionally served as a platform for global talent, with players from all over the world displaying their abilities in one of the most competitive football leagues. Few international players have achieved remarkable heights making a lasting impression with their goal-scoring skills.

1. Sergio Aguero-184 goals

5 Foreign Stars Who Have Scored Over 120 Goals in Premier League History - Sergio Aguero - sportzpoint.com
Sergio Aguero has scored the most goals in Premier League history as a foreigner. 

Many people consider Argentine forward Sergio Aguero among Premier League history's best strikers. Aguero, who played for Manchester City from 2011 to 2021, changed the course of history with his precision finishing and ability to score goals at pivotal times. He has the best goals-to-games ratio of any player with more than 150 Premier League goals, scoring an incredible 184 goals in 275 games.

Aguero's most memorable moment came in 2012 when he dramatically won Manchester City's first Premier League title with an injury-time goal against QPR. He became a legend for City and the league at large due to his reliability and ability to perform well in crucial games.

Read Also | The Premier League’s Rising Stars in 2024

2. Thierry Henry- 175 goals

Thierry Henry - 5 Foreign Stars Who Have Scored Over 120 Goals in Premier League History - sportzpoint.com
Thierry Henry won four Premier League Golden Boot awards, more than anyone in history. Image | Arsenal

Thierry Henry, a French maestro, is known for his grace and skill in front of goal. Over two stints with the North London club, the Arsenal star scored 175 goals in 258 Premier League games. Henry won the Premier League Golden Boot four times, more than any other player in Premier League history, and was renowned for his incredible speed, skill, and ability to score spectacular goals on his own.

He scored 30 league goals and guided Arsenal to the championship during the undefeated "Invincibles" season of 2003–04, which was his most productive performance. Henry established the standard for what it meant to be a complete forward, his legacy endures even after retiring from football.

Read Also | Breaking Down the Most Iconic Football Facts and Moments of All Time

3. Mohammed Salah- 170 goals

5 Foreign Stars Who Have Scored Over 120 Goals in Premier League History - Mohamed Salah - 170 goals - sportzpoint.com
Mo Salah previously held the record for most goals in a 38-game Premier League season. Image | OPTA

Since joining Liverpool in 2017, Mohamed Salah has become one of the Premier League's most prolific goal-scorers. With more than 150 goals to his name, the Egyptian forward has consolidated his status as one of the greatest of all time. Salah made an explosive start, scoring 32 goals in the 2017-18 season, setting the record for the most goals in a 38-game campaign before Erling Haaland broke it again with 36 goals. 

Known for his blistering speed, sharp finishing, and relentless work ethic, Salah has been instrumental in Liverpool's recent successes, including their 2019-20 Premier League title. He may break more records as he continues to find the back of the net with remarkable consistency this season.

 4. Robin Van Persie- 144 goals

5 Foreign Stars Who Have Scored Over 120 Goals in Premier League History - Robin Van Persie | sportzpoint.com
Van Persie won the Premier League Golden Boot twice. Image | Goal

Robin Van Persie, who scored 144 goals in 280 Premier League games, is renowned for his exquisite finishing and outstanding technique. He won the Premier League Golden Boot twice (2011–12, 2012–13) he played for Manchester United from 2012–2015 and Arsenal from 2004–2012.

His best season was 2012–13 when he scored 26 goals and helped United win their 20th EPL title. Van Persie was one of the most feared strikers in the league because of his versatility, and ability to score from a variety of positions.

 5. Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink- 127 goals

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink scored 127 goals in Premier League - the fifth most by a non-English player | sportzpoint.com
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink is one of the greatest strikers to play for Chelsea.

The Dutchman combined physicality and powerful shots to create a formidable presence in front of goal. Between 1997 and 2007, he made 288 Premier League appearances, scoring 127 goals while playing for Leeds United, Chelsea, Middlesbrough, and Charlton Athletic.

With two Golden Boot victories (1998–99 and 2000–01), he rose to fame for his long-range shots and clinical finishing. He is still regarded as one of the best strikers to play in a Chelsea jersey.

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Arsenal vs Manchester United Premier League 2024-25 Highlights | Arsenal hand Ruben Amorim his first defeat as United coach with a 2-0 win

Get the highlights of the epic Premier League 2024-25 clash of Arsenal vs Manchester United as Arsenal handed Ruben Amorim his first defeat as Manchester United coach with a 2-0 win.

Koushik Biswas

Dec 5, 2024, 9:57 AM

Arsenal vs Manchester United Premier League 2024-25 LIVE Updates | Timber scores for Arsenal; ARS 1-0 MUN - sportzpoint.com

Hello and welcome to another Premier League LIVE coverage brought to you by Sportz Point. Tonight, we will be covering the epic encounter between Arsenal and Manchester United at the iconic Emirates Stadium in London. 

What to expect?

Manchester United somehow have reignited themselves under their new charismatic coach Ruben Amorim while Arsenal looking to catch Liverpool at the top of the table to stay in the title race. As both teams have plenty to win and even more to lose, this Arsenal vs Manchester United match becomes more interesting for the fans and viewers.

Read Also | Arsenal vs Manchester United: Match Preview, Head-to-Head Stats, Predictions, Possible Lineups

So, sit back and relax as we bring you all the build-up, updates, news and scores of the match. Enjoy the coverage.

LIVE Updates
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Arsenal vs Manchester United: Match Preview, Head-to-Head Stats, Predictions, Possible Lineups

Check out the full match preview, previous records, head-to-head stats, predictions, injury updates and possible lineups of the Arsenal vs Manchester United clash in Premier League 2024-25 season.

Muojindu Francis

Dec 4, 2024, 1:50 PM

Arsenal vs Manchester United: Match Preview, Head-to-Head Stats, Predictions, Possible Lineups - sportzpoint.com

Arsenal vs. Manchester United has been a feature of the Premier League schedule from the ferocious matches of the Arsène Wenger and Sir Alex Ferguson era to current matchups involving up-and-coming talents. This rivalry is more than just a game; it's a display of pride, football history, and the ongoing struggle for dominance between two of the best teams in England.

Match Details

Match: Arsenal vs Manchester United

Date: 04/12/2024

Time: 1:30 am (IST)

Venue: Emirates Stadium, London, England.

Match Preview:

Struggles have marked Manchester United's season, but the arrival of new manager Ruben Amorim has sparked a remarkable turnaround. The team is yet to lose under his leadership, with many attributing this resurgence to the "new manager bounce" phenomenon, where players step up to prove their worth. However, there is a noticeable improvement in United's attacking play beyond this initial lift. Amorim's high-intensity pressing and reliance on hardworking full-backs have added a new dimension to their game. Critics argue that the teams he has faced so far are not the strongest, making Arsenal his first real test.

For Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, this fixture holds special significance. In 2020, he masterminded a historic victory at Old Trafford, breaking a 14-year winless streak on United's turf, courtesy of a Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang penalty. Despite Arsenal's progress under Arteta, Manchester United remains a formidable challenge.

This season, Arsenal has shown marked improvement, thanks to smart recruitment that has made the team more fluid in transitions and versatile in positional play. The ability to invert both flanks has added unpredictability to their build-up, making them a more cohesive and dangerous side.

Amorim faces a tactical dilemma heading into this match. Should he stick to his system, knowing Arsenal dismantled a Sporting Lisbon side built on his principles, or tweak his approach to counter Arteta's strengths? Balancing his philosophy with United's gradual adaptation to his style will be critical.

On paper, Arsenal appears the favourite, barring any late injuries that have frequently disrupted their season. However, if Amorim can exploit counterattacking opportunities and disrupt Arsenal's rhythm by limiting their time on the ball, United could pose significant problems.

For football enthusiasts, this midweek clash promises to be a perfect way to unwind and enjoy two contrasting styles of play from two historic clubs.

Head-to-Head Stats:

In the last 5 matches Arsenal has gotten the better of Manchester United 3 times with the last being a 1-0 win at the Old Trafford earlier in April this year, while the latter have won the other 2 leaving no room for a draw. however, the sides will face each other 3 times this season with the first one happening today. Below is the head-to-head record since 1995.

Total matches: 70

Arsenal: 23

Manchester United: 31

Draws: 16

Team News

Arsenal

Mikel Arteta and Thomas Partey - sportzpoint.com

While Arsenal has shown resilience in recent weeks, key players remain on the sidelines. Takehiro Tomiyasu has been absent since October 5th, following a 3-1 victory over Southampton, and Ben White is still recovering after undergoing knee surgery.

Midfield stalwart Thomas Partey, one of Arsenal's most consistent performers this season, missed the recent game against West Ham due to a recurring muscle issue. Although he seemed to have overcome this problem earlier in the season, concerns remain about his long-term fitness. The club is optimistic, however, that his absence will not be prolonged.

Additionally, both Mikel Merino and Gabriel Magalhães have been managing fitness struggles. Gabriel, in particular, has been restricted to just 45 minutes in Arsenal's last two matches. The Brazilian defender first showed signs of discomfort during the Liverpool game, where he was substituted early in the second half.

On a brighter note, Kieran Tierney's return offers a welcome boost. After a summer transfer attempt failed, he has been reintegrated into the squad and is back to full fitness. His availability comes at a critical time, with fixtures piling up and Arsenal needing all hands on deck.

Manchester United

Ruben Amorim in charge of Manchester United

Amorim faces a selection headache with the suspension of English midfielders Kobbie Mainoo and Lisandro Martinez, both sidelined after picking up five yellow cards. These players have been instrumental in implementing the manager's playing philosophy since his arrival. Additionally, the availability of Leny Yoro, Johnny Evans, and Victor Lindelof remains uncertain, further complicating the situation.

Read Also | Ruben Amorin to Man United: What will happen to Erik's Ajax boys at United?

Key Players to Watch

Bukayo Saka

Arsenal vs Mancheste United: Players to watch out - Bukayo Saka - sportzpoint.com

Throughout the 2024–2025 campaign, Bukayo Saka has consolidated his place among Arsenal's and England's top players with 10 assists and 5 goals in 12 matches. His on-field leadership, creativity, and consistency have all been combined to create truly outstanding performances.

Saka's offensive contribution continues to be an essential part of Arsenal's success. With numerous goals and assists, he has played a key role in breaking down defences, particularly in close games when his ability to float past opponents and produce accurate crosses or finishes has been crucial.

Another significant strength has been his adaptability; Saka has fit in well whether used on the right flank, in a more central position, or even sliding deeper to influence build-up play.

What sets this season apart is the increased maturity in his game. Saka has taken on greater responsibility, often stepping up in crucial moments, and with his ability to maintain composure under pressure, he will definitely pose a significant threat to the United Defence.

Read Also | The most shocking goal misses in Football history

Amad Diallo

Arsenal vs Manchester United: Players to watch out - Amad Diallo - sportzpoint.com

Under Ruben Amorim, Diallo secured his position as a vital player by putting on strong performances weekly after being overlooked in prior seasons with his involvement coming only as a squad rotation player.

United's attacking dynamics have greatly benefited from Diallo's rise and creative ability. He has shown remarkable dribbling skills, quick feet, and an eye for goal while playing mainly as a winger. Defences have struggled to keep up with his cutting inside from wide areas and unleashing strong shots or threading clever passes.

He will be an effective tactical weapon heading into this game for United

Possible Lineups

Arsenal: David Raya (GK), Timber, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori, Jorginho, Odegaard, Rice, Martinelli, Havertz, Saka

Manchester United: Andre Onana (GK), Dalot, De Ligt, Mazroui, Shaw, Ugarte, Casemiro, Fernandes, Rashford, Zirkzee, Diallo

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